As We Age, Our Smell Evolves – And Boy, Do People Notice

Think of a newborn baby. That fresh, slightly sweet smell of new life that feels almost addictive and entirely unique. Now, think of the not-so-fresh, not-so-sweet smell of a teenage boy. Two very different smells, centered around two very different phases of life.

Our bodies have distinctive scents at every stage of life, and those scents evolve as we age. While we learn early on the importance of deodorant, regular showers, and good hygiene, not every change in body odor is something we can wash away. In fact, some of the smells associated with aging have very little to do with hygiene at all.

The phenomenon commonly referred to as "old people smell" is a perfect example. That characteristically musty, grassy scent sometimes associated with older adults comes from a compound called 2-Nonenal. Although it doesn't exactly roll off the tongue, Japanese researchers identified and named this compound in 2001, putting a scientific explanation behind something people had noticed anecdotally for centuries.

So, where does this smell actually come from? The 2-Nonenal molecule forms when certain unsaturated fatty acids on the skin break down through oxidation. This process naturally becomes more pronounced as we age, often beginning around age 40. The resulting scent is often compared to that of old books or wet cardboard.

Although this is a natural part of aging, there are ways to help minimize the odor and its effects. Persimmon-based soaps, for example, contain tannins that may help break down and neutralize odor-causing compounds, rather than simply masking them with fragrance. There is limited clinical evidence on the effectiveness of this solution, but if you decide to try it out be sure to use it regularly for at least three weeks before deciding if it works for you. Gently exfoliating the skin a couple times a week can also help remove accumulated oils and dead skin cells, but it’s important to follow up with a moisturizer to maintain a healthy skin barrier.

Body care is only part of the equation. Odor-causing compounds can also transfer to clothing, bedding and other fabrics, where they may linger over time. Regularly washing clothing and linens, along with cleaning upholstered furniture and carpets, can help keep these odors from building up. Baking soda sprinkled onto fabric surfaces before vacuuming may help absorb some unwanted odors, while appropriate, enzyme-based upholstery sprays can help break apart and dilute lingering scents.

Because 2-nonenal can be volatile, managing indoor air quality is another important part of tackling unwanted odors. Regular ventilation helps prevent odors from accumulating in enclosed spaces. Opening windows for 15 to 20 minutes when weather permits, using exhaust fans and maintaining good airflow can all help freshen indoor spaces.

While the science might make the smell seem a little less mysterious, the takeaway is surprisingly simple: it's a natural part of getting older. So, the next time you hug a loved one or notice a subtle change in the way your parent's house smells, remember that you're witnessing a normal biological process – one that will eventually happen to everyone.

Even you.